Three-day minimum for helmets, shoulder pads in place for football preseason

An additional step in the heat acclimatization period for preseason high school football practices was implemented at Wednesday’s TSSAA Board of Control meeting.

Teams may wear helmets and shoulder pads beginning with July 22 practice sessions, and players will be required to practice in helmets and shoulder pads for a minimum of three days prior to practicing in full gear.

“Teams can go in helmets throughout the summer,” said Mark Reeves, assistant executive director of the TSSAA. “This just strengthens what we already have in place and extends the requirement to the individual.”

Injured players who do not begin practice when the team does will still have to work three days in helmet and shoulder pads before putting on full gear.